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This study explores the experiences of learned helplessness and identifies support needs among patients facing recurrent implantation failure during IVF treatment.

June 18, 2026Open Access

Experiences Related to Learned Helplessness and Support Needs Among Patients with Recurrent Implantation Failure Undergoing in vitro Fertilization and Embryo Transfer: A Qualitative Study

SGShimin GuoGuangdong Pharmaceutical University XPXiaocui PengGuangdong Pharmaceutical University CXChunying XieGuangdong Pharmaceutical University

Key Points

This study explores the experiences of learned helplessness and identifies support needs among patients facing recurrent implantation failure during IVF treatment.
Descriptive phenomenological study design
In-depth semi-structured interviews conducted with 17 patients
Data analyzed using Colaizzi’s method and NVivo 15.0 software.
Identified four themes related to learned helplessness and coping responses.
Patients reported significant psychological distress due to repeated treatment failures and uncertainty.
Highlighted the need for emotional support, information, and continuity of care.

Abstract

Purpose: This qualitative study aimed to explore experiences related to learned helplessness and support needs among patients with recurrent implantation failure undergoing in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer, and to provide evidence for targeted psychological support and nursing interventions in clinical practice. Patients and Methods: A descriptive phenomenological study was conducted. Using purposive sampling, 17 patients with recurrent implantation failure undergoing in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer were recruited from the Reproductive Medicine Center of a tertiary Grade A hospital in Guangzhou between December 2025 and March 2026. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed using Colaizzi’s seven-step phenomenological method, supported by NVivo 15.0 software. Results: The analysis identified four themes and 13 subthemes, covering perceived sources of learned helplessness, manifestations in daily life and psychological well-being, participants’ coping responses, and external support needs. These themes reflected how repeated treatment failure, invasive procedures, uncertainty about pregnancy outcomes, and medical and family-related pressures shaped participants’ helplessness experiences, influenced daily life and psychological well-being, and generated needs for information, emotional support, continuity of care, and supportive family and peer communication. Conclusion: Patients with recurrent implantation failure undergoing in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer described learned helplessness as a multifaceted experience related to repeated treatment failure, invasive procedures, uncertainty about pregnancy outcomes, and medical and family-related pressures. This experience was closely associated with disruptions in daily life, persistent psychological distress, differentiated coping patterns, and multidimensional support needs. Healthcare professionals are encouraged to identify feelings of helplessness early and provide continuous, individualized nursing support based on patients’ coping patterns and support needs. Keywords: recurrent implantation failure, learned helplessness, nursing, qualitative research

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